***** REQUEST FOR VOLUNTEERS *****

As part of a project by the Canadian Forest Service to identify new outbreaks of the spruce budworm (which feasts on spruce and fir trees) in eastern Canada, the VTA has been approached for volunteers. It involves putting up an insect pheromone trap in your area and checking it regularly throughout the spring-summer period (probably mid-May to late July). Participants will receive a kit that will include everything you need.

 

Three levels of commitment maybe selected from to accommodate the individuals participating

 

1.       Three days a week (Mon. Wed, Fri.)

2.      Two days a week (Mon. & Thurs. OR Fri.)

3.      One day a week (chosen by participant but must be the same day each week)

 

Here's a link to more information about the insect http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/forests/insects-diseases/13383

If you are interested please contact Jim MacLean at 705-848-6035.

***** HIKE CANCELLATION *****

From Jim M. "It is snowing sideways here and is supposed to be drifting along highway 17. With safety in mind, I think it prudent that we cancel the Chutes hike today." 

Banana Lake, February 21, 2015

Photos by Astrid T.
Perfect temperatures and plenty of powder as Phill led a group of 11 around the Banana Lake loop today.  We went clockwise, starting out on the snowmobile trail and then heading into the bush, across the lake to our lunch spot and back out to the road along the Banana Lake trail.  Lots of trail breaking and in spots the snow was over knee deep!  PHOTOS

***** CHUTES HIKE, TIME CHANGE *****

Please note that for Tuesday's hike to the Chutes, we will meet at the parking lot at 9:30 to leave for Massey.

***** HIKE CANCELLATION *****

Since we are once more in the deep freeze, today's Intermediate Hike has been CANCELLED.

Porridge Lake/Former Landfill, February 17, 2015

Photos by Astrid T.
Emily led a small group of eight snowshoers along part of the Porridge Lake trail today.  We explored some snowmobile trails before heading back to our lunch spot along the lake.  PHOTOS

***** HIKE CANCELLATION *****

The leisure hike scheduled for Monday, February 16 has been cancelled as we are still in deep freeze weather.  However, we can still meet at McD's for coffee!

***** Saturday, February 14 Hike *****

Please note that, due to unforeseen circumstances, this hike has been changed to TBA. 

***** Algoma Paddlers *****

The Algoma Paddlers have a brand new website!!  Check it out here https://www.algomapaddlers.ca/

Strouth Lake, February 10, 2015

Commentary and photos by Tana F. 
Jim and Sue led a group of 15 to Strouth Lake. The wind was a bit chilly, but it was a beautiful sunny day. PHOTOS